SUBSTITUTE John Toner's 84th-minute strike proved enough to send TNS into the Welsh Cup Final for the first time since their 1996 success. However, it was cruel luck on Port Talbot in the semi-final for the first time.

Their pain was emphasised when, with seconds remaining, Allan Clark clattered the crossbar with what would have been a superb and deserved equaliser.

Mark Jones's men matched their full-time opponents in every department. Indeed, they were the better side for much of the first period, when Craig Hughes caused the Saints considerable problems.

But TNS are experts at patiently absorbing pressure and carving out a result, and so it proved once more.

Nevertheless, they were on the defensive immediately as Port Talbot started like greyhounds out of a trap. Craig Hughes chested down a sixth-minute cross before firing in a shot which goalkeeper Richard Acton did well to turn aside. Hayden Flemming then shot narrowly over as Port Talbot maintained their attacking momentum.

Spotting goalkeeper Acton off his line, Hughes sent in a spectacular lob which sailed inches over the bar.

Having withstood the pressure TNS at last began to ask some questions of their own. Martyn Naylor collected a quick throw-in on the right and his resulting drive produced a fine save from Simon Raynor.

The Saints were still unable to find their rhythm, with Liam Hancock, back from suspension, in superb form in central defence for Port Talbot.

With manager Ken McKenna's half-time team talk ringing in their ears TNS's full-timers might have been expected to turn the screw after the break.

However, they never allowed Port Talbot the room they had enjoyed in the first period, the Saints still created little themselves.

John Toner replaced injured Simon Davies for TNS and former Swansea youngster Michael Waters came on for Port Talbot instead of Gavin Beddard. After the interval, while TNS looked dangerous on the break it was Port Talbot who had the better chances, Craig Hughes twice going close.

With six minutes remaining Toner was put clear. Simon Raynor bravely blocked his first effort but could do nothing as Toner struck home the rebound.